Richard Schmidt’s relationship with wood began long before Crooked Tree Woodworks existed. Growing up in Utah, he developed a deep respect for natural materials through years of hands-on work—framing homes, restoring barns, and studying the quiet language of grain, knot, and curve. Today, as founder and guiding hand of Crooked Tree Woodworks, Richard blends decades of craftsmanship with an unwavering commitment to integrity. He believes furniture should be more than functional—it should carry soul, tell a story, and last generations. Every custom piece that leaves his shop reflects this philosophy: no shortcuts, only care.
A Note from Richard
“I don’t just build furniture—I listen to the wood. Every slab has a story shaped by wind, time, and growth. My job is to honor that story with honest hands, thoughtful design, and unwavering care. At Crooked Tree, we don’t chase trends. We build pieces meant to be lived with, passed down, and remembered.”
From age 7, Max learned the language of lumber on construction sites alongside his father, framing walls and studying how wood behaves under stress and time. After spending formative years in Texas and returning to Utah, his childhood curiosity grew into a profound appreciation for trees—not just as material, but as living systems with unique patterns, grains, and stories. Today at Crooked Tree Woodworks, Max channels that lifelong reverence into every hand-sanded edge and carefully selected slab, helping craft custom wood furniture that honors both nature and legacy.
Your custom piece begins with a thoughtful conversation where we understand your ideas, style, and vision. From there, we carefully craft a unique design that reflects your personality and purpose.
